Navy Midshipmen

Navy enters 2026 with a new quarterback in Braxton Woodson, a senior who brings sprinter's speed and versatility after playing quarterback, slotback, and wide receiver. The offense must replace 68% of its yards from scrimmage from last year's big three, but coordinator Drew Cronic's hybrid Wing-T system remains a challenge for opponents. The offensive line returns four starters from a unit that led the nation in rushing, and senior guard Hoke Smith II anchors a group that should keep the ground game potent. The key question is whether Woodson can consistently produce as a runner and passer, and whether senior running back Vic Listorti can stay healthy after a hamstring issue cost him most of last season.

The Midshipmen return two highly productive inside linebackers in MarcAnthony Parker and Coleman Cauley, who combined for 176 tackles last season. Safety Giuseppe Sessi, who called defensive signals and finished second on the team with 81 tackles, also returns. The pass rush is a concern after losing first-team All-America nose guard Landon Robinson, but the secondary brings back experienced corners Nick Bell and Irabonoise Oniha, and safety Phillip Hamilton solidified the pass defense late last year. The defense's ability to generate pressure without Robinson will be a defining factor.

Punter Jacob Carlson returns after averaging 44.5 yards per punt in his first season as starter, providing reliable field position. The placekicking job is still a competition, with Justin Welch entering camp atop the depth chart but the battle expected to continue into the season. Slotback Isaiah Bryant has been a productive kickoff returner and may add punt return duties, giving Navy a dynamic threat in the return game.

Navy relies on unproven players stepping into key roles, a hallmark of a program that prides itself on development. Junior slotback Charles Robinson earned the Admiral Mack Award as the most improved player in spring practice, and senior wide receiver Luke Hutchison, the team's fastest offensive player, returns after missing seven games with a shoulder injury. The Midshipmen have a history of unknowns emerging, and fourth-year head coach Brian Newberry believes the program can reload rather than rebuild.

Navy's season hinges on how quickly the new offensive playmakers gel and whether the defense can compensate for the loss of its star nose guard. The Midshipmen have a favorable early schedule with a home opener against Towson, but the American Athletic Conference slate will test their depth. If Woodson proves effective and the offensive line dominates, Navy could again contend for a bowl berth. The pass rush and health of Listorti are the biggest vulnerabilities to watch.